Funk & Wagnalls

Milestone Navigator

Retirement Transition

The shift from accumulation to decumulation requires a fundamental change in mindset and strategy. This milestone guides you through the irreversible decisions of Social Security, Medicare, and tax-efficient withdrawal.

1

Financial Readiness Assessment

Before giving notice, verify your 'funded ratio'—the percentage of your liabilities covered by reliable assets. This isn't just about a number; it's about cash flow certainty.

Related Concepts:InvestingRmds401k
2

Social Security Strategy

Analyze the breakeven points for claiming at 62, full retirement age, or 70. Delaying can significantly increase your guaranteed lifetime income.

Related Concepts:Social Security
3

Medicare Enrollment

Navigate the initial enrollment period to avoid lifetime penalties. Understand the difference between Original Medicare and Advantage plans.

Related Concepts:Medicare
4

Decumulation Planning

Structure your withdrawals to minimize tax impact across taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts using a dynamic withdrawal strategy.

Key Tradeoffs

Key Tradeoffs

  • Social Security: Delaying provides a guaranteed 8% 'return' per year of deferral, but requires bridging the income gap with portfolio assets.
  • Medicare: Medicare Advantage offers lower premiums and bundled services but often has restricted networks and higher out-of-pocket maximums compared to Original Medicare + Medigap.

Professional Consultation

Questions for your Professional

  1. What is my sustainable withdrawal rate given current market valuations?
  2. How does my claiming strategy affect spousal benefits?
  3. Am I subject to IRMAA surcharges on my Medicare premiums due to income spikes?

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